Comparison · Online course platforms
edX vs LinkedIn Learning: which is better in 2026?
edX ranks higher in our list of online course platforms (#3 against #5, score 87.0 against 81.0).
- 87.0Editorial score81.0
- 3Platforms3
- YesFree to useNo
- NoOpen sourceNo
Which should you choose?
Choose edX if you want
University courses and verified certificates.
University courses that many learners can take without paying, with verified certificates and degree programs. Its practice tools are thinner than those of coding platforms, and credentials cost extra.
Choose LinkedIn Learning if you want
Workplace skills and career-focused video courses.
Short business and software video courses with skill assessments and team plans. Only a free trial month is listed, so it ranks below the free starts on the platforms above.
The main differences
- edX can be used for free; LinkedIn Learning requires payment.
Side by side
 edX |  LinkedIn Learning | |
|---|---|---|
| Score | 87.0 | 81.0 |
| Rank in list | #3 of 10 | #5 of 10 |
| Price | Free plan, paid upgradesFree account; verified certificates and degrees cost extra | SubscriptionSubscription after a free trial month; team plans available |
| Free to use | Yes | No |
| Open source | No | No |
| Platforms | WebiOSAndroidWeb, iOS, Android | WebiOSAndroidWeb, iOS, Android |
| Made by | Not stated | |
| Credentials offered | Certificates and degrees | Skill assessments |
| Strongest subjects | Computer science and business | Business and software |
| Who teaches | Universities and institutions | Industry professionals |
| Self-hosted option | No | No |
| Best for | University courses and verified certificates | Workplace skills and career-focused video courses |
| Strengths |
|
|
| Limits |
|
|
| Links | Visit site | Visit site |
Questions about edX vs LinkedIn Learning
- Is edX better than LinkedIn Learning?
- edX ranks higher in our list of online course platforms (#3 against #5, score 87.0 against 81.0). edX is best for: university courses and verified certificates. LinkedIn Learning is best for: workplace skills and career-focused video courses.
- Which is cheaper, edX or LinkedIn Learning?
- edX: Free account; verified certificates and degrees cost extra. LinkedIn Learning: Subscription after a free trial month; team plans available.
- Do edX and LinkedIn Learning run on the same platforms?
- edX supports Web, iOS, Android. LinkedIn Learning supports Web, iOS, Android.
Choosing between the two
Learning Center
1:17How to decide between two good optionsSettle a close call by sorting it by how hard it is to undo, setting a deadline, scoring the criteria as a tie-breaker and writing down why you chose.
1:20How to compare products fairly: what to keep in mindDefine the job, cap the must-haves, compare like with like, count total cost over one period and weigh the criteria. Includes a worked example.